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Coronavirus Resources

Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures our experts’ opinions aren’t influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.

We at The Ascent care about your needs during this difficult time and will be continually updating this page with available resources for the duration of COVID-19's impact. We'll be posting daily updates of relief options, personal finances tips, and more. We're here for you and will weather this storm alongside you.

Resources and Relief

I've lost my source of income due to coronavirus. What can I do?

Look into the benefits you are entitled to receive, such as unemployment. A good place to start is the Department of Human Services website for your state. Many utilities, credit card companies, and other businesses are waiving late fees or interest for those who cannot pay.

>>>Read more: What to do if coronavirus cuts your income

A stack of four credit cards

Where can I find financial help during the coronavirus pandemic?

We are updating our list of resources available nationally, by industry, and by state daily during this time of high impact.

>>>Read more: How to find financial help during the coronavirus pandemic

A man sitting with a laptop and notebook late at night.

I'm having trouble making ends meet. Could a loan help?

Coronavirus hardship loans are available through some lenders, banks, and credit unions.

>>>Read more: Could you qualify for a coronavirus hardship loan?

A young couple looking up information on a laptop while sitting in their kitchen.

What federal relief options are available?

Stimulus checks are available to most Americans as well as extended unemployment benefits and other relief.

>>>Read more: Federal relief and stimulus options for coronavirus

Man sitting on steps next to briefcase with head in his hands

How do I apply for unemployment?

Each state has a different process for applying for unemployment. For more info on how to apply, select your state below.

young man delivering groceries to senior woman.

I'm part of the high-risk populations. What resources are available?


Resources such as special shopping hours and delivery services can help to mitigate risk and protect your health.

>>>Read more: Resources available for vulnerable populations

A kindergarten classroom with colorful books, chairs, and decorations.

With many schools and businesses closed, what childcare resources are available right now?

While childcare services are currently limited, there are options including babysitting and distance learning that can occupy your child if needed.

>>>Read more: Childcare resources during coronavirus

I can't afford to pay my bills right now. What can I do?

Many utility, credit card, and other companies are offering relief right now. Check with each issuer or company to learn the details of their programs.

>>>Read more: What to do if you can't afford your bills right now

A worried-looking man staring at his computer with his chin in his hand.

Concerned about your finances? You're not alone.

The novel coronavirus pandemic is currently in the process of shaking the world. Millions of people around the globe are worried about their health -- but COVID-19 is also causing dread around personal finances. The Ascent surveyed over 900 Americans to find out how coronavirus is affecting their finances and how they feel about their current situation.

>>>Read more: Here's what personal finance concerns folks having during coronavirus

A woman holding her credit card up to the payment reader at the pharmacy.

How to protect your credit score during coronavirus

Here are the steps to take to ensure your credit score doesn't take a hit.

>>>Read more: How to protect your credit score during coronavirus

Young Man On Phone Looking At Monitor

Are banks offering relief due to coronavirus?

Many, if not all, banks are offering relief. Contact your bank to learn what assistance may be available to you.

>>>Read more: Banks offering relief during coronavirus

A stressed young woman looking out the window with her head resting on her crossed arms.

I'm worried about my mental health. Is there someone I can talk to?

The coronavirus pandemic can be source of anxiety or depression. If you need immediate assistance there are several online resources that can help.

>>>Read more: Mental health relief and the coronavirus

Worried-looking woman on phone holding at prepaid card.

How to spot a coronavirus relief scam

With the country in disarray, it's important to look out for scammers.

>>>Read more: Here's how to spot a coronavirus relief scam

Personal Finance

father working from home on laptop and kissing toddler sitting in his lap -- telecommuting

I'm concerned with what the coronavirus means for my finances. What steps should I take?

There are many steps you can take to protect your financial future. The first and most important step is to avoid taking action out of fear or hoarding goods.

>>>Read more: Coronavirus and your finances

A woman sitting next to her dog on her couch in the sun while holding a credit card and looking something up on her laptop.

How can I protect my finances from the coronavirus outbreak?

Don't sell investments out of panic or buy more supplies than you need, which could damage your savings or leave you in debt. Instead, try to cut expenses and shore up your savings, and consider taking advantage of historically low interest rates.

>>>Read more: Protecting your finances during coronavirus

A worried-looking man staring at his computer with his chin in his hand.

The stock market is down. Should I be cutting back on spending?

With so much uncertainty around the coronavirus, it's difficult to know what the future may look like. Cutting back on unnecessary expenses can help you save money and establish an emergency fund.

>>>Read more: Should I cut back on spending during coronavirus?

What will happen if I miss payments on my credit cards or loans, and how will this affect my credit rating?

Missing even a single payment can be devastating to your credit. That said, nearly all credit card issuers are doing a great job of working with their customers, so give them a call if you're having trouble. You may be able to temporarily suspend payments, which is a much better outcome than missing a payment.

>>>Read more: How will one late credit card payment affect my credit?

A young couple sitting at their dining table with notebooks and reviewing their finances on a laptop.

What can I learn from the coronavirus?

The biggest takeaway is to be financially prepared. Having money saved in an emergency fund can help to cover expenses when unexpected events arise.

>>>Read more: What the coronavirus has taught us about financial planning

What is the most affordable way to borrow during coronavirus?

Here are your options to borrow if you need to right now.

>>>Read more: What is the most affordable way to borrow during coronavirus?


A man filling out an application form at a sunny desk.

Should I apply for a new loan or credit card during coronavirus?

It might not be a bad idea to have additional funds and resources right now. Here's what to know.

>>>Read more: Should I apply for a new loan or credit card during coronavirus?

hand inserting quarter into piggy bank

How to rebuild your emergency fund after coronavirus

If you're dipping into your savings to stay afloat during coronavirus, here's how to rebuild afterward.

>>>Read more: How to rebuild your emergency fund after coronavirus

Couple Sitting On Floor Talking

How might the coronavirus change your attitude toward money?

This pandemic will eventually pass, and life will return to a new normal. What can we learn from the crisis, and how can we be better prepared for the next financial emergency?

>>>Read more: How COVID-19 may change your financial outlook forever

Two Women With Tablet

MLMs come in many guises. Don't let yourself be pulled in

There's been a rise in multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes promising quick, easy cash to people who are struggling to make ends meet. Learn to recognize and avoid them.

>>>Read more: MLMs and recessions: How to spot an MLM and say no

Couple Studying Laptop

Should I put my stimulus check in a savings account?

Many Americans will receive a CARES Act stimulus check. Find out whether a high-yield savings account is the best place to put yours.

>>>Read more: Should you invest your stimulus check in a high-yield savings account?

Man Holding Credit Card Reader

I'm strapped for cash. Should I rely on my credit cards right now?

We're often warned of the dangers of credit cards, but if you're feeling the pinch, they might be a lifesaver. What’s more, when used responsibly, credit cards could actually save you some money.

>>>Read more: Credit cards can help during an economic slump -- if you're careful

Man In Kitchen On Laptop

I'm worried I might lose my job. What can I do to prepare?

Millions of Americans have been laid off during the COVID-19 crisis. If you've kept your job so far but are concerned that you'll soon become unemployed, here are three things you can do to soften the blow.

>>>Read more: What to do to prepare in case you're laid off during COVID-19

Travel

A busy airport security entrance with lots of people rushing through.

Will travel insurance cover coronavirus-related cancellations?

Most travel insurance will not cover pandemic-related cancellations. However, you may be covered for medical treatment while abroad, and there are steps you can take to protect future travel plans.

>>>Read more: Travel insurance and coronavirus

man standing on subway platform wearing a mask due to coronavirus pandemic.

Can I change my travel plans due to coronavirus?

Every travel provider has its own set of policies, but most are waiving fees for changes or cancellations.

>>>Read more: Coronavirus and booked travel


FAQs

A man pushing a shopping cart through the aisles of a warehouse store.

Are there jobs that are in high demand because of coronavirus?

Although many companies have reduced their workforces, a few industries are hiring to account for increased demand for certain products and services.

>>>Read more: COVID-19: Jobs that are in demand

A stressed-looking man staring at his computer while sitting alone in a dark office.

As a business owner, how can I keep my customers and employees safe?

The World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have the latest. Additionally, our sister site, The Blueprint, has resources for small-business owners during COVID-19.

>>>Read more: Keeping your small business customers and employees safe

A woman standing at the window in her home and looking out at the neighborhood.

How can I best support my community and local businesses?

If you're financially able to do so, ordering food and local goods can help local businesses that have remained open. There are also several cost-free ways to support your community, such as volunteering at a relief center or picking up groceries for high-risk neighbors.

>>>Read more: How to support your community and local businesses during coronavirus

A woman looking at her laptop in her pottery studio.

Is there a way for me to make money online while my normal job is shut down?

It depends on what you do (or can do), but thanks to online freelance marketplaces like Upwork, it's easier than ever to check.

>>>Read more: Side hustles during coronavirus

A mom chatting with her teen daughter as she works on her homework.

What important lessons can I teach my children about money?

With many children home from school, now is an excellent time to teach them about budgeting, household duties, how credit cards work, and more.

>>>Read more: 4 financial lessons for kids during distance learning

A woman looking at jars of food in an empty grocery store.

What should I stock up on to prepare for isolation?

If you're forced to isolate yourself or your family at home for a few weeks, there are some essential items you'll want on hand. The key is to buy only what you need to avoid hoarding and diminishing supplies for others.

>>>Read more: 7 things you should stock up on for coronavirus isolation

Jar full of money with plant growing out of it.

Is now a good time to invest?

It's always a good time to invest from a long-term perspective, and that's especially true when the market has dropped significantly. That said, in the near term, we don't know whether stocks will drop further or rebound. Make sure you're mentally prepared for both scenarios. For more information on investing check out The Motley Fool.

>>>Read more: Where to invest $500 right now

A woman working at home with her dog in her lap.

I'm working from home due to my office closing. How can I stay productive?

It can be a challenge to be away from the office, but creating a dedicated workspace and setting a routine can help you stay safe and productive.

>>>Read more: Work from home tips for productivity during coronavirus